What does unsynchronized mean?
Unsynchronized means lacking coordination in timing, sequence, phase, or alignment. It is used most often for clocks, electronic systems, data streams, recordings, and other technical arrangements whose components are not operating in exact correspondence. A pair of unsynchronized clocks may show slightly different times, while unsynchronized audio tracks may fail to remain properly aligned during playback. The word can also be used figuratively: two departments, campaigns, or development efforts may be described as unsynchronized when their activities do not correspond with one another. Unlike words suggesting disorder, “unsynchronized” usually identifies a mismatch in coordination rather than general inefficiency. The term is most frequent in formal and technical writing, but it is readily understood in broader contexts. Its usefulness lies in specifying a problem involving timing or coordination without requiring technical detail.
adjectiveNot synchronized; lacking coordination in timing, sequence, phase, or alignment. The term is often used of clocks, devices, processes, performances, or events that do not operate in exact correspondence with one another.
- Not synchronized in time, sequence, phase, or alignment.
- Not coordinated or consistent with one another.
"The two systems remained unsynchronized, causing conflicting data to appear in their respective dashboards."
"The recording was ruined by unsynchronized audio tracks."
"Their efforts to expand the service remained unsynchronized with the needs of local communities."
Two unsynchronized clocks can agree by coincidence for a moment, then betray you an hour later.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does unsynchronized come from?
The word was formed in English by combining the prefix “un-” with “synchronized.” “Synchronize” comes from Greek synchronos, meaning “happening at the same time,” together with the suffix “-ize.” The modern form developed as clocks, communications systems, and other processes became increasingly described according to whether their timing was coordinated.
How unsynchronized is actually used
The word is formal and especially common in technical, scientific, and organizational contexts. British English commonly uses the spelling “unsynchronised,” while American English uses “unsynchronized.” It can describe either a temporary mismatch or a process designed to operate without shared timing.
Easily confused with unsynchronized
Unsynchronized describes things that are not aligned or coordinated in time, whereas asynchronous more often describes a system whose operations proceed independently rather than according to a shared timing sequence.